Being injured at work can be a frustrating experience. Not only do you have to miss work while you recover, you may find that your workers’ compensation benefits are denied by your employer or the insurance carrier. If this happens, then hiring a workers’ compensation attorney is the best course of action to help you get the benefits you deserve.
But, what about if your benefits are distributed? Is there anything else that you need to do? What quite a few injured workers in Virginia don’t realize is that to protect their rights, according to Virginia Law, even if payments have been made by the claim administrator or their employer for missed time at work, they have to file a Claim for Benefits form.
Filing the Claim for Benefits for Your Workers’ Compensation Case
Even in situations where you have no plan to request your benefits at this time, you still need to submit the Claim for Benefits form, with the entire Part A section completed. This form needs to be filed with the Commission within a period of two years after the accident, or your diagnosis of a disease or illness. If you need certain benefits, or if the claims administrator denied your workers’ compensation claim, then you will also need to fill out Part B of the form and submit all related medical reports.
What Happens if You Fail to File the Claim for Benefits Form for Your Workers’ Compensation Case?
If you don’t file the Claim for Benefits with the Commission within the two-year period, you may lose the right to receive a number of benefits in the future, including:
- Lifetime medical benefits
- Death benefits
- Permanent total disability
- Permanent partial disability
- Wage loss replacement
Reasons to Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney for Help with Your Case
While it is pretty evident that you will need the services of a workers’ compensation attorney if your claim for benefits is denied, many people don’t know they should also seek this legal representation if their medical expenses are being covered. The fact is, there are steps you have to take after a workplace injury and if you fail to do so, it may cost you benefits in the future.
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you better understand what to do and ensure you receive all the benefits you are entitled to. More information about workers’ compensation benefits can be found by contacting the attorneys at Hilton &Somer by calling 703-560-0700.
Additional Reading
Falling in a Commercial Building: Injury Cases and Settlements
The Risks of Airplane Injuries From Falling Overhead Luggage
